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Science News for April 22, 2021


Sculpting radiation beam spares lung cancer patients from severe, disabling complication

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital develop a new radiation technique that carefully targets tumors while sparing surrounding tissues, reducing inflammation and preserving swallowing function. The study shows promising results in patients with localized lung cancer, with none developing severe esophagitis despite high-dose ra...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 22, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Ankle exoskeleton enables faster walking

Researchers developed an ankle exoskeleton that significantly increased self-selected walking speed in young adults, with a 42% average increase. The device has potential for improving daily life and may also reduce pain caused by weight on joints or improve balance in older adults.

SourceStanford University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateApr 22, 2021

Fossils of "giant cloud rats" discovered in Philippine caves

Scientists have discovered fossils of three new species of giant cloud rats in Philippine caves, dating back tens of thousands of years. The rodents filled an ecological role similar to that of squirrels in the US and were resilient for at least 60,000 years, but two of the species disappeared around 2,000 years ago.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateApr 22, 2021

Successful research development approach helps cancer patients using mobile tech

The UVA Center for Engineering in Medicine has developed a robust process to help researchers win funding from institutions like the National Institutes of Health. The center's first seed grant cohorts have achieved astonishing results, including $12 million in follow-on funding with just a $2 million initial investment.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateApr 22, 2021

Taking down human traffickers through online ads

Researchers adapted an algorithm to identify similarities in escort ads, highlighting common parts and indicating potential human trafficking activity. The InfoShield algorithm outperformed other algorithms at identifying trafficking ads with 85% precision, flagging them without false positives.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 22, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New therapy target for malignant melanomas in dogs

Scientists have discovered a potential new therapy target for canine cancer, specifically oral malignant melanoma in dogs. The treatment targets the PD-L1 molecule, which has shown promise in human cancer treatments, and significantly increased survival time for dogs with pulmonary metastatic OMM.

SourceHokkaido University·Journalnpj Precision Oncology·DateApr 22, 2021

Firearms laws curb rates of gun violence across United States

A Rutgers University study found that states with stricter firearms laws reported lower suicide and homicide rates. The study analyzed data from 1991 to 2017 and found a significant correlation between the total number of firearm laws in a state and its corresponding suicide and homicide rates.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateApr 22, 2021

Common antibiotic effective in healing coral disease lesions

A new study by Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute reveals that a common antibiotic, amoxicillin, is effective in treating stony coral tissue loss disease. The study showed a 95% success rate in healing individual lesions, but did not prevent the development of new lesions over time.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 22, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New research data on the regulation of hormone-dependent breast cancer

Researchers discovered that distinct Notch family members are modified differently by phosphorylation, leading to opposite effects on transcriptional activity and oncogenic behavior. The study suggests that targeting PIM or Notch proteins may provide new treatment options for hormone-dependent breast cancer with poor prognosis.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 22, 2021

China requires switch to zero-carbon energy to achieve more ambitious Paris Agreement goal, models S

A new analysis suggests China needs to reduce carbon emissions by over 90% and energy consumption by almost 40% to achieve the 1.5°C target, with industry being the main emission contributor. The study also highlights the need for more research on economic consequences of working towards this goal.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

Possible new PET tracer for early detection of Alzheimer's

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new astrocyte-specific PET tracer, BU99008, which detects reactive astrogliosis in the brain. This finding could improve early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, with potential implications for other disorders related to astroglial dysfunction.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateApr 22, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Emergency EMR created in a week to respond to COVID-19 crisis

A team from Regenstrief Institute created an emergency EMR for Indianapolis first responders in just one week using OpenMRS, a global open-source electronic medical record system. The system allowed for quick registration of patients, collection of basic clinical information, and transmission to the Indiana health information exchange.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics·DateApr 22, 2021

Photoexpansion: Bio-based polyesters hard film

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology discover a phenomenon called photoexpansion in hard plastic films, which exhibits convex deformation under UV light due to cis isomerization. The study reveals the unique deformation mechanism of bio-based polycinnamate films, offering potential for precise control of ph...

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 22, 2021

Landscape induced back-building thunderstorm lines along the mei-yu front

A study analyzing high-resolution model simulations found that mountainous terrain, particularly the Nanling Mountains in Jiangxi Province, initiates back-building convective lines. This leads to torrential flooding and heavy rainfall within the mei-yu front rainband.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 22, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New material could better protect soldiers, athletes and motorists

A new process has led to the development of high-performance energy absorbing systems that can be used in various applications, including vehicle crash safety, military armoured vehicles, and human body protection. The material's unique nanoscale mechanism enables it to absorb more mechanical energy per gram with good reusability.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 22, 2021

Scientists propose new formation mechanism for solar coronal rain

Scientists have discovered a new type of coronal rain forming along open magnetic structures on the Sun, which is facilitated by interchange magnetic reconnection between open and closed magnetic structures. This mechanism triggers thermal instability, leading to cooling and condensation of hot coronal plasma, resulting in coronal rain.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateApr 22, 2021

Can machine learning improve debris flow warning?

Researchers used machine learning to detect and alert against debris flows in the Illgraben torrent, achieving 90% accuracy in detecting early flows. The system could provide crucial warning time for nearby people and infrastructure, potentially saving lives.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 22, 2021

'Like a metronome': Stalagmite growth found to be surprisingly constant

Scientists discovered stalagmite growth is consistently linear over hundreds and thousands of years, providing an unparalleled capacity for precise chronology building. The analysis revealed that warmer climates tend towards more growth, while colder climates see slowed growth, but the majority of samples follow a linear growth pattern.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalReviews of Geophysics·DateApr 22, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Scientists provide new insights into the citric acid cycle

Researchers discovered that certain anaerobic bacteria can use citrate synthase to catalyze citrate cleavage without consuming ATP, requiring very high CO2 concentrations. The findings suggest that this metabolic pathway may be a relic of early life and have potential applications in biotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 2021

Transport phenomena at the nanoscale

Researchers successfully employ hard X-ray transient grating spectroscopy to study phonon response and material properties at the nanoscale. The technique, which uses subnanometer wavelength pulses, reveals insights into bulk and nanostructured materials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 22, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Little crop of horrors

Researchers are investigating how carnivorous plant genes can help crops defend themselves from pathogens and insects, reducing reliance on pesticides and fertilizers. The team plans to test transgenic crop plants with protein-based pest deterrents and nutrient-enhancing traits.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 22, 2021

Faster air exchange in buildings not always beneficial for coronavirus levels

A modeling study suggests that rapid air exchanges can cause a spike in viral concentrations within 30 minutes and remain elevated for up to 90 minutes. Increasing outdoor air and strong filtration reduce transmission risk, but the effect of increased ventilation rate is less obvious.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateApr 22, 2021

60-year scientific mystery solved

Researchers have identified a critical role for DNA replication timing in controlling the packing of DNA with its regulatory factors, known as the epigenome. The study found that disrupting this program can lead to inappropriate cellular functions and negative health outcomes.

SourceSan Diego Biomed·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

Individual receptors caught in the act of coupling

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique that captures individual receptors on the surface of living cells with unprecedented detail. This breakthrough could lead to a new generation of drugs with greater specificity and reduced side effects, particularly for disorders such as schizophrenia and depression.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 22, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

IU researchers tackled the challenges of conducting intrastate policy surveillance

A study by Indiana University researchers found that access to local health-related laws in Indiana counties is limited due to outdated or non-existent online databases. The study aimed to build a comprehensive database of local laws, highlighting the importance of standardized online systems for policy surveillance and transparency.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 22, 2021

Stress test finds cracks in the resistance of harmful hospital bugs

Researchers found that trehalose and glycogen pathways are crucial for stress tolerance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a significant pathogen causing pneumonia and hospital-acquired infections. Disrupting these pathways significantly reduced the bacteria's ability to survive on man-made surfaces.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 22, 2021

Urgent shortage of evidence for safe withdrawal from antidepressants

A new study highlights the urgent need for more research on safe approaches to discontinuing antidepressant treatment. Long-term use can lead to adverse events, but the current low-certainty evidence makes it difficult to determine the best tapering strategies.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateApr 22, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

A new method for fighting 'cold' tumors

Researchers found that regulatory T cells are silencing T cells in cold tumors, leading to reduced immune response. Using medication to deactivate Tregs and radiation treatment can help boost immune response.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateApr 22, 2021

Hungry fruit flies are extreme ultramarathon fliers

Researchers discovered that fruit flies can fly up to 15 kilometers in a single journey, outpacing many migratory bird species. The study, led by Kate Leitch, used 'release and recapture' experiments with hundreds of thousands of common lab fruit flies.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2021

International research teams explore genetic effects of Chernobyl radiation

Researchers used genomic tools to investigate health effects of Chernobyl radiation, finding no evidence of genetic changes passed from parents to children. The studies identified genetic changes in thyroid cancer tumors of people exposed as children or fetuses to radiation released by the accident.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

What does 1.5 °C warming limit mean for China?

A study by Chinese Academy of Sciences researchers found that China's efforts to achieve a 1.5°C warming limit require significant reductions in carbon and non-carbon emissions, with substantial declines in energy consumption and fossil fuel use. The study also highlights the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Multimillion euro funding for the search for 'new physics'

Prof. Dr. Piet O. Schmidt receives EU funding to explore fundamental questions of modern physics, aiming to improve limits for new forces and changes in natural constants. His team plans to develop novel measurement methods using highly charged ions.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·DateApr 22, 2021

Maternal, neonatal outcomes among pregnant women with, without COVID-19

A study investigated maternal and neonatal outcomes among pregnant women with and without COVID-19, finding COVID-19 diagnosis associated with increased risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. The results highlight the need for enhanced prenatal care and monitoring for pregnant women with COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 22, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Study paves the way for new photosensitive materials

Researchers at Arizona State University have explored the molecular dynamics of titania clusters to develop more efficient photocatalysts. The key to advances in this field lies in extending the time electrons persist in an excited state, enabling titania to act as a catalyst.

SourceArizona State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateApr 22, 2021

Climate-smart ag strategies may cut nitrous oxide emissions from corn production

A study by Penn State researchers suggests that dairy farmers can reduce nitrous oxide emissions from corn crops by applying manure after planting and using organic nitrogen amendments. The results show that this approach can lower total nitrogen application and mitigate climate change, while also protecting water quality.

SourcePenn State·JournalNutrient Cycling in Agroecosystems·DateApr 22, 2021

Researchers design micro-sized capsules for targeted drug delivery -- inspired by Russian pelmeni

A team of researchers has developed a method to create biodegradable polymer microcapsules with non-spherical shapes, which can enhance targeted drug delivery. The capsules are designed using soft lithography and have shown promising results in retaining hydrophilic molecules and being internalized by cells without causing toxic effects.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMaterials & Design·DateApr 22, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Story Tip from Johns Hopkins experts on COVID-19

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 may provide protection against the latest variant strains and even the common cold. The vaccine-induced T cell response was found to be effective in recognizing the spike proteins of both SARS-CoV-2 and three common cold coronaviruses.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 22, 2021

What Parkinson's disease patients reveal about how art is experienced and valued

Researchers found that Parkinson's disease patients demonstrate stable preferences for abstract art but diminished perception of movement in paintings. The study suggests that the brain's motor system interprets non-representational visual cues as abstract representations of movement, influencing aesthetic experiences.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateApr 22, 2021

Burns victims struggling to pay

A new study found that Aboriginal families with children suffering severe burns often struggle to pay healthcare costs and travel expenses, exacerbating existing economic hardship. The research also highlighted the importance of family networks in mitigating financial burdens, but called for improved access to government initiatives ai...

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·DateApr 22, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Using exoplanets as dark matter detectors

Researchers propose using exoplanet temperatures as a new method for detecting dark matter. By analyzing the effect of dark matter on exoplanet temperatures, scientists hope to gain insights into this mysterious substance. The study suggests that exoplanets could be used to detect both light and dark matter.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 22, 2021

Trial tests intervention to reduce sedentary time in patients with kidney disease

A pilot trial found that the 'Sit Less, Interact, Move More' intervention decreased sedentary time, increased stepping time, and boosted step counts in patients with moderate-to-advanced CKD. However, these benefits were not sustained over 20 weeks. The study suggests that additional interventions may be needed to sustain long-term eff...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 22, 2021

Climate has shifted the axis of the Earth

Research suggests that global warming caused a shift in the Earth's axis due to glacial melting and changes in land water storage. The study analyzed data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) mission, finding that water loss on land contributed significantly to the eastward change in polar drift.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 22, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Salad or cheeseburger? Your co-workers shape your food choices

A large study of hospital employees found that individuals tend to mirror the food choices of others in their social circles, influencing both healthy and unhealthy eating patterns. The researchers discovered that casual acquaintances can also shape eating behavior, with peer pressure being a key factor.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 22, 2021

How we know whether and when to pay attention

Researchers identified two distinct types of uncertainty affecting human anticipatory behavior: whether an event will occur and when it will happen. The brain dynamically adjusts its readiness to respond based on separate probability estimates of these two uncertainties, allowing for more accurate predictions in real-time.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Less is more for the next generation of CAR T cells

Researchers found that a shorter 'linker' on CAR T cells improves their response to B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study suggests that modifying the length of linkers can improve CAR T cell function and overcome current limitations.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 22, 2021

Law professor argues for removing police from traffic enforcement

A new legal framework for traffic enforcement, proposed by University of Arkansas law professor Jordan Blair Woods, separates traffic laws from critical police functions. This would delegate most traffic enforcement to newly created traffic agencies, reducing racial and economic injustice in stops.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalStanford Law Review·DateApr 22, 2021

Inspired by nature, the research to develop a new load-bearing material

Scientists at the University of Leeds have created a material that mimics human cartilage, providing shock-absorbing and lubrication properties. The new material has shown great potential in engineering, particularly in bearings, and could challenge traditional oil-lubricated systems.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateApr 22, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Victoria Blaho receives prestigious Lina M. Obeid Award

Victoria Blaho, Ph.D., assistant professor at Sanford Burnham Prebys, received the first-ever Lina M. Obeid Award for her work on sphingolipids and their role in immune function, cancer, neurodegeneration, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·DateApr 22, 2021

Army-funded research paves way for improved lasers, communications

Researchers designed and built two-dimensional arrays of closely packed micro-lasers that achieve power density orders of magnitude higher, paving the way for improved lasers, high-speed computing, and optical communications. The breakthrough enables single-mode lasing with enhanced emission power and increased coherence.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

Achieving privacy and integrity in the cloud

The PICOCRYPT project guarantees the integrity, privacy and effectiveness of computation on data stored in the cloud. Cryptographic techniques will be used to solve problems related to espionage and incorrect results.

SourceIMDEA Software Institute·DateApr 22, 2021

Mutations can reduce effect of hormonal treatment in early breast cancer

A small proportion of women with anti-estrogen treatment after breast cancer surgery have worse outcomes due to mutations in the estrogen receptor gene. Research found that 1% of breast cancer cases already at initial diagnosis have these resistant mutations, leading to poorer response to hormonal treatment and higher risk of recurrence.

SourceLund University·JournalJNCI Cancer Spectrum·DateApr 22, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Immune system, not COVID virus, may pose greatest risk to pregnant women

A Yale University study found that pregnant women infected with COVID-19 are more likely to experience preterm births and neonatal problems due to a robust immune response in the placenta. The researchers also discovered that the virus's ACE2 receptors are present in most placentas during the first trimester, but disappear later.

SourceYale University·JournalMed·DateApr 22, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk in NBA during 2020 season

Despite having clinically recovered from COVID-19, NBA players, staff, and vendors experienced persistent viral loads, indicating a high transmission risk. The study found that these individuals were more likely to transmit the virus to others, highlighting the need for continued precautions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Political polarization: Often not as bad as we think

A new global study replicates earlier research in the US, finding that people's perceptions of their opponents are often exaggerated and misinformed. The study suggests that informing individuals about the true feelings of those on the opposite side can mitigate polarization.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 22, 2021

Freeze! Executioner protein caught in the act

WeHI researchers used monobodies to 'freeze' MLKL at different stages of its activation, mapping how its three-dimensional structure changed. This revealed potential target sites for drugs that could block necroptosis, a key contributor to inflammatory diseases.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Unlocking Australia's biodiversity, one dataset at a time

The Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) is a national biodiversity database that provides reliable data for scientists, policy-makers, and environmental planners. It contains nearly 95 million occurrence records of over 111,000 species, showcasing its potential to support the development of science and decision-making.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateApr 22, 2021

Fighting harmful bacteria with nanoparticles

Researchers develop nanoparticles that penetrate human cells and destroy bacteria, offering new hope against antibiotic resistance. The particles use cerium oxide to create reactive oxygen species that kill germs, reducing the likelihood of resistance development.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNanoscale·DateApr 22, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Groundwater wells worldwide run risk of running dry

According to a new study, nearly 20% of groundwater wells globally are at risk of drying up if groundwater levels decline. This is largely due to increasing demand and inadequate governance or management, putting critical vulnerabilities to even modest reductions in groundwater levels.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

Under pressure: Manipulating protein-mimicking molecules with hydrostatic pressure

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology discover that hydrostatic pressure can dynamically control the conformations of artificial molecules called foldamers, which mimic proteins. This finding opens doors to future development of pressure-sensitive materials and has implications for understanding biological processes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateApr 22, 2021

NAOC scientists make further step towards understanding dark energy

Researchers have made a significant step in understanding dark energy using the eBOSS survey, detecting its existence at a 11-sigma significance. The study employed multi-tracer analysis to mitigate systematics and achieve robust cosmological results.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 22, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Updated results on coronavirus vaccination effectiveness

The study found that the vaccine is highly effective across all age ranges, with 92% effectiveness in preventing symptomatic disease in individuals 70 years and older. Vaccine effectiveness varied among subpopulations, with slightly lower rates in multi-morbid populations and immunosuppressed individuals.

SourceClalit Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 22, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

'Stickiness' key to better diagnostics and pharmaceuticals

The University of Queensland's technology uses lasers to track microscale particles with world-record precision, measuring viscosity a thousand times faster than ever before. This breakthrough may lead to a fundamental revision of scientists' understanding of cells, enabling faster and more accurate pharmaceutical testing.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 22, 2021

Plant provenance influences pollinators

Researchers at the University of Münster studied the impact of plant seed provenance on pollinator diversity and frequency. They found that plants from different regions influenced pollinators' visits to flowers, with some regions offering more frequent interactions.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateApr 22, 2021

Miniaturized models of neuron-muscle interactions give insight in ALS

Researchers created mini-chambers on a microfluidic device where human motor neurons and skeletal muscle cells grew, forming neuromuscular junctions. The study found that ALS motor neurons formed fewer connections and regenerated axons less efficiently than healthy ones.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 22, 2021

Better country dementia care

A pilot program in five Australian nursing homes shows personalized music selections reduce resident agitation and staff stress levels, leading to improved wellbeing and reduced medication use.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBMC Geriatrics·DateApr 22, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Pregnant women with COVID-19 face high mortality rate

A worldwide study of 2,100 pregnant women found that those who contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy were 20 times more likely to die than those who did not contract the virus. The study also showed that infected mothers and their newborns experienced preterm birth, preeclampsia, and ICU admissions.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 22, 2021

Hunger cues

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a signaling molecule called neuropeptide-Y (NPY) as the key driver of hunger-dependent odor attraction. Mice with NPY deficiency showed reduced preference for food odors, highlighting the crucial role of NPY in enhancing food attraction when hungry.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

SMART breakthrough in materials discovery enables 'twistronics' for bulk systems

Researchers have discovered a new way to control light emission from materials by stacking films at a twist angle, enabling efficient and systematic control of optical properties. The discovery has significant implications for applications in medicine, environmental technologies, and information systems.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 22, 2021

Know your ally: Cooperative male dolphins can tell who's on their team

Research led by University of Bristol scientists reveals that male dolphins categorize allies according to a shared cooperative history. Dolphins respond strongly to friends who have consistently helped them in the past, while ignoring those who haven't, indicating a social concept of 'team membership'.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 2021

Uniquely sharp X-ray view

For the first time, scientists have successfully used transient grating spectroscopy with ultrafast X-rays to explore material properties at the atomic level. This method allows for the observation of individual atoms and selective measurement of specific chemical elements in a mixture of substances.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 22, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

XYZeq: A better map of cell diversity

A new method called XYZeq allows researchers to map variation across cells in a tissue or tumor, gaining insight into their spatial location and function. The technique enables the analysis of cellular patterns in complex environments like cancerous tumors and other organs.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 22, 2021

Increased tourniquet use has saved lives in Los Angeles County

Increased tourniquet use in Los Angeles County has improved patient survival and reduced the need for blood transfusions. The study found that patients with prehospital tourniquets had lower mortality rates, fewer delayed amputations, and lessened blood transfusion requirements.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 22, 2021

Romantic relationships mitigate effects of trauma on alcohol use among college students

A study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers found that romantic relationships can help alleviate the negative impact of trauma on drinking behavior among college students. The study, which involved nearly 9,000 participants, discovered that students who experienced interpersonal trauma during college consumed more alcohol t...

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalAddiction·DateApr 22, 2021

Experimental drug shows potential against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers developed a novel drug that increases LAMP2A receptors, revitalizing chaperone-mediated autophagy and removing toxic protein aggregates. In mouse models of Alzheimer's, the drug reversed key symptoms, suggesting potential for human treatment.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateApr 22, 2021

How is a molecular machine assembled?

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum and collaborators isolated a PS II transition complex with three helper proteins using cryo-electron microscopy. The study reveals a novel protective mechanism that prevents the formation of aggressive oxygen species during assembly, allowing for a more efficient and stable machine.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Plants·DateApr 22, 2021

Fifty years of collaborative science

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) is celebrating 50 years of sharing scientific knowledge, with millions of users accessing its data for fundamental biology, energy, and biomedicine. The event highlights the PDB's role in understanding protein folding, including SARS-CoV-2, and structural biology's impact on medicine and drug discovery.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 22, 2021

Membranes unlock potential to vastly increase cell-free vaccine production

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new biomanufacturing platform that can increase protein-based vaccine yields by five-fold and reduce production costs to $1 per dose. The technology utilizes enriched cell-free extracts with cellular membranes, significantly broadening access to potentially lifesaving medicines.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 2021

3D printed models provide clearer understanding of ground motion

Researchers are using 3D printed models to study ground motion after earthquakes, providing a novel platform for seismic experiments. The models replicate complex topographical features and allow scientists to simulate how seismic waves interact with the Earth's surface.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 22, 2021

Researchers trace spinal neuron family tree

Salk researchers have traced the development of spinal cord neurons using genetic signatures, revealing new ways of classifying and tagging subsets of cells. The findings offer a precise way to study the function of spinal cord neurons and their role in regulating body movements.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 22, 2021

Recreating the earliest stages of life

Researchers successfully generate synthetic mouse embryos containing the three fundamental cell types normally found in pre-implantation embryos. The study provides strong evidence that the system is a good model for studying early embryo development, shedding light on the mechanisms of totipotency and the causes of early pregnancy loss.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 22, 2021

Why the human body has not evolved to make childbirth easier -- or has it?

Researchers used engineering tools to investigate the pelvic floor hypothesis, which states that trade-offs exist between supporting childbirth and protecting organs. A larger pelvic floor would facilitate easier childbirth but risk deforming under weight, causing organs to fall downward.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2021

Improving survival in pancreatic cancer

Nagoya University researchers discovered a molecular pathway that enhances chemotherapy resistance in some pancreatic cancer patients. Targeting the taurine upregulating gene 1 (TUG1) RNA could improve patient response to therapy and increase overall survival.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 22, 2021

Black, Hispanic, impoverished people have worse survival rates among teens, adults under 40 with cancer, UTSW review shows

A UT Southwestern Medical Center review of Texas Cancer Registry data found that Black and Hispanic patients under 40 with cancer have lower survival rates compared to their white counterparts. The study also showed that poverty and lack of insurance coverage exacerbate these disparities.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 22, 2021

The future looks bright for infinitely recyclable plastic

A new type of plastic, poly(diketoenamine), can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. The material's production and recycling processes are designed to be inexpensive and energy-efficient, making it commercially competitive with conventional plastics.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 22, 2021

COVID-19 mobility restrictions effective for short duration, study finds

A new study found that people's mobility declined sharply in March and April but quickly recovered to pre-pandemic levels from April through June. However, during the second wave, there was very little change in mobility despite the pandemic becoming more severe.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Transport Geography·DateApr 22, 2021

Silver ions hurry up, then wait as they disperse

Researchers at Rice University reveal a two-step process by which silver ions are released from nanoparticles, with the possibility of stabilizing the alloy through gold manipulation. The discovery could lead to the development of new catalysts and materials for various applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 22, 2021

C-Path opens access to Duchenne Regulatory Science Consortium database

The Duchenne Regulatory Science Consortium (D-RSC) database will share individual-level data with qualified researchers to accelerate therapy development for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The database includes data from clinical trials and natural history studies, and is fully de-identified to ensure participant anonymity.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·DateApr 22, 2021